# The Ultimate Checklist for Moving Homes 2025-06-20 Moving homes can be overwhelming, but with careful planning and this comprehensive checklist, your move in Hong Kong will be smooth and stress-free. ## 1\. Early Planning & Research **_1 to 2 months before moving_** - Decide your moving date and new home location. - Research your new neighborhood’s facilities, transport, and building regulations. - Assess your moving budget including packing, transport, and cleaning costs. - Start decluttering: sort items to keep, donate, sell, or discard. - Consider professional movers like Speedy Move for logistics support. ## 2\. Notify Government & Update Records **_1 month before moving_** - Use the [Hong Kong Government’s Change of Address Service](https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/housing/moving/coa.htm) to update your address with multiple departments in one go. - Register or update your address with: - Immigration Department - Inland Revenue Department - Transport Department - Social Welfare Department - Other relevant government departments and NGOs - Obtain a digital certificate (e.g., Hong Kong Post’s e-Cert) if required for online updates. - Notify your employer, banks, insurance providers, and medical services. - Inform schools if you have children. **Reference: [GovHK Moving Home](https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/housing/moving/movinghome.htm)** ## 3\. Utilities & Services _**2 weeks to 1 month before moving**_ - Arrange disconnection or transfer of utilities at your old home at least 14 days in advance: - [Water](https://www.wsd.gov.hk/en/customer-services/manage-account-and-water-bills/water-bills/change-and-enquire-account-details/index.html) [Supplies](https://www.wsd.gov.hk/en/customer-services/manage-account-and-water-bills/water-bills/change-and-enquire-account-details/index.html) [Department](https://www.wsd.gov.hk/en/customer-services/manage-account-and-water-bills/water-bills/change-and-enquire-account-details/index.html) - Electricity Company ([CLP](https://www.clp.com.hk/en/residential/close-electricity-account-residential/apply-move-out-and-move-in) or HK Electric) - Gas Company (Towngas) - Internet, telephone, and paid TV providers - Set up utilities at your new home as early as possible to avoid downtime. - Consider using online portals provided by utility companies for easy account management. ## 4\. Mail Redirection _**2 weeks before moving**_ - Apply for Hong Kong Post’s Mail Redirection Service to forward mail from your old address to the new one for a specified period. - Notify family, friends, subscriptions, and service providers of your new address. Reference: [GovHK Mail Redirection](https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/housing/moving/movinghome.htm) ## 5\. Declutter, Donate & Sell **1 to 2 weeks before moving** - Donate usable furniture and household items to organizations such as: - Crossroads Foundation (pick-up service available) - Salvation Army (small appliances only) - Remar Hong Kong (accepts large items) - Oxfam and other local charities - Use Hong Kong Second-hand Exchange for selling or donating items. - Arrange for collection or drop-off at designate ## 6\. Packing & Labeling _**1 week before moving**_ - Use sturdy boxes and quality packing materials. - Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room. - Pack fragile items carefully with bubble wrap or padding. - Prepare an essentials box with daily necessities for easy access. - Disassemble furniture if possible to save space and prevent damage. ## 7\. New Home Inspection - Conduct a thorough inspection of your new home before moving in: - Check doors, windows, locks, and ironworks. - Look for water leaks, stains, cracks, or paint issues. - Test electrical outlets, plumbing, and appliances. - Use Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors’ checklist for detailed guidance. - **References: [HK Institute of Surveyors’ Guide to Prospective Homebuyers Care On Purchase](https://www.hkis.org.hk/ufiles/HKIS_FlatGuide2023_en.pdf)** ## 8\. Logistics & Moving Day - Confirm parking and elevator access at both old and new residences. - Provide removalists with a floor plan and highlight fragile or valuable items. - Keep valuables, important documents, and personal items with you. - Check inventory as items are loaded and unloaded. - Inspect furniture and boxes for damage before signing off. - Clean your old home or arrange for a cleaning service. - Return keys and access cards to your previous landlord or property manager. ## 9\. Setting Up Your New Home - Arrange utilities activation and internet setup. - Unpack essentials first (bedding, kitchenware, toiletries). - Assemble furniture and arrange rooms. - Register your new address with local community services if needed. - Set up home security systems or smart home devices. ## 10\. Post-Move Support & Follow-Up - Check mail forwarding and update any missed address changes. - Schedule any repairs or maintenance needed in the new home. - Register with new healthcare providers if applicable. - Familiarize yourself with local amenities and transport routes. - Consider storage solutions if there’s a gap between moves. ## Bonus: Protect Your New Sleep Environment with Hush Home Bedding After a long day of moving, enjoy restful sleep with Hush Home’s sleep essentials. Our [Mattresses](https://www.hushhome.com/pages/mattress), [Pillows](https://www.hushhome.com/pages/pillows), [Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets™](https://www.hushhome.com/products/sheets) and more ensure comfort, hygiene, and durability in your new home. Protect your mattress and pillows from dust and allergens during the move and beyond. --- > Source: [Hush Home](https://www.hushhome.com/blogs/sleep-products-guide/the-ultimate-checklist-for-moving-homes)